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Former AFLW player Emma Grant is suing the Collingwood Football Club, claiming the Magpies were negligent in their handling of a severe concussion that prematurely ended her career.
- Emma Grant retired in 2020, two months after suffering a concussion in a practice match
- She alleges Collingwood allowed her back into training too soon
- The AFL changed its rules in 2021, requiring players diagnosed with concussion to be sidelined for at least 12 days, up from six
Emma Grant was a foundation player and vice-captain with the Magpies, playing 20 games across four years.
When she badly injured her head during a pre-season practice match in January 2020, she was forced to sit out the entire season.
She announced her retirement two months later following a "debilitating and prolonged recovery", the club said at the time.
Grant, 33, has launched civil action against the club.
Her lawsuit is backed by Margalit Injury Lawyers, the same firm that recently announced its intention to launch a class action against the AFL on behalf of dozens, potentially hundreds, of former AFL and AFLW players suffering the long-term effects of concussion.
In documents filed in the County Court of Victoria, Grant said Collingwood allowed her to resume training less than three weeks after her concussion.
Grant alleged the conduct of the club was negligent and "fell below a reasonable standard of care".
"As a result of the negligence and/or breach of duty, the plaintiff has suffered injury, loss and damage," the writ reads.
Grant is claiming damages, costs and interest.
"Collingwood's primary concern is of the health and welfare of its players and staff," a statement from the club read.
"The matter has not been previously raised with the Club but the fact that it is now before the courts means it is not appropriate to make any comment."
Prior to the injury in January 2020, Grant suffered concussion during her playing career.
Collingwood is yet to file its defence to the claim.
In 2021, the AFL brought in new rules stating that male and female players diagnosed with concussion must be sidelined for a minimum of 12 days before returning to play, compared to six days under the old guidelines.
A schoolteacher from Bendigo in Central Victoria, Grant moved into coaching after she finished playing, and works for Richmond as a development coach.